Chrysler to Roll out Web Tools for Dealers
Chrysler has announced a plan to provide their franchise dealers with a completely new Internet marketing system as of October 1. The shift in applications and tools is designed to help those dealers looking to excel as an “interactive” dealer, do just that easily and affordably, according to the OEM.
The first phase of Chrysler’s new dealer Web service will include both dealer Web sites (SEO maximized) and an Internet lead service. Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep Web site visitors will be able to easily access dealer content, including inventory, local messages, dealer special offers and other related information.
“The way people shop has changed dramatically in recent years. Chrysler understands today’s consumers well. These new tools represent a fundamental shift in the way we go to market,” said Deborah Meyer, vice president and chief marketing officer, Chrysler LLC. “Because our brand and dealer websites will be fully integrated, consumers will now be able to move more easily through the shopping experience and our Dealers will be able to respond faster to them.”
Chrysler touts that its Web service will serve only the highest quality Internet leads to dealers at a rate that is 30 to 40 percent below retail costs. To ensure dealer satisfaction, all dealers will receive a free 30-day trial and there is no long-term commitment required for participation. We’ll only know once the service launches how disruptive it could be to other automotive portals that make millions per annum doing the same thing for dealers today. In the end however, it looks like Chrysler LLC and the Chrysler Dealer Internet Advisory Committee, sat down and studied what newspaper sites and third party automotive sites provide them with today and asked that Chrysler’s interactive team do the same for franchise dealers, but just better integrate it with the OEM site. Therefore, they get no points for innovation, but they do get points for acting on their strengths. Today, franchise dealers receive the most qualified leads from their OEM sites and Chrysler’s interactive plan ensures that they will build on top of that steam and make money from the dealers while doing so.
